Allergies have increased since the 1980s and now 40-5 million Americans are affected by some sort of allergy. Some children are genetically predisposed to an allergy, which is described as the "abnormal response by the immune system to things the body should perceive as harmless." Certain environmental factors, such as smoking, also play a role...

According to the American College of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology, 15-20% of the population has some type of allergy, most of which emerge during infancy or childhood. As scientists begin to understand the underlying genetic and molecular causes of children's allergies, the medical practices are changing. When children have a genetic predisposition to allergies there is an immune response in which the antibody adheres to substances that aren't really a threat, such as foods, pollen, animal dander and dust.

The studies now show that an allergy requires genetics, environment and exposure. First there must be a genetic predisposition to an allergy. Then there must be an exposure to the allergen. In addition, doctors now believe that there are certain environmental factors that make it more or less likely that a child will develop an allergy, such as living with a smoker.

Living with Food Allergies

The reactions to food allergies can range from mild to life-threatening with children being the largest group to suffer from food allergies. Almost any food can cause a reaction, but milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish and shellfish account for about 90% of all allergic reactions. The families of those with food allergies know that reading labels is an important step to avoid food allergens. To help those suffering from food allergies, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration now requires manufacturers to list allergens on their labels.

In addition to packaged foods, restaurant meals may contain allergens. At any time there is a question about the contents of a food, do not hesitate to ask. Because of the consumer response to foods with special dietary needs today there are more many more products, such as gluten-free products, to accommodate Celiac disease sufferers who have allergic reactions to the protein found in some grains.

Protecting Children

Research studies have shown that infants should, whenever possible, be breastfed for at least the first four to six months of a child's life to help prevent allergies. There are few experts who also would add to not smoke since numerous studies have shown that being exposed to secondhand smoke increases asthma rates. Experts also advise not to have peanuts or products containing peanuts in the house until your child is at a year old.

Immune Boosting NutritionUse nutrition to boost your immunity and minimize the symptoms of an allergy. Most health experts suggest adding foods high in antioxidants, such as green tea, fish, blueberries and flaxseed, to reduce the inflammatory response. Another suggestion is to consider boosting the immune system with Smart Supplementation as well as environmental changes, such as avoiding the offending foods and triggers.